London for the Christmas holidays

‘Tis the season to be jolly once again, almost! And if you’re looking somewhere you can spend your Christmas holidays, consider London. The city can be truly magical during the Christmas season, because there is so much to see and do in and around the city.

If you want to experience a traditional Christmas, London is the place to be. With magical Christmas lights, ice-skating and markets galore there is something for everyone. For Londoners, the Christmas lights switch-on is the beginning of the season, and usually happens at the beginning of November. The switch-on of the Oxford Street and Regent Street Christmas lights, is a big deal every year, and there is usually a celebrity or two to flick the switch! Ice-skating rinks will appear at popular tourist sites around the city, and are a lot of fun even you aren’t an experienced skater.

A holiday in London would not be complete without shopping, and the city’s shopping districts and retailers such as Harrods, Selfridges, John Lewis and more, dazzle with extravagant Christmas window displays during the holidays. For excellent bargains, you can also visit the regular, bustling street markets along Portobello Road or Brick Lane. Pop-up Christmas markets appear throughout the city every year – head to the Southbank or Hyde Park to really get in the festive mood.

Christmas is also a great time to experience London’s theatre extravaganzas, with glittery productions of festive favourites such as The Nutcracker or A Christmas Carol. If you have children with you, go and see a traditional pantomime, these are usually based on a fairy tale, such as Peter Pan or Cinderella. There are always a lot of street performers in London, and at Christmas this is no different, you’ll be able to find carol singers easily, and even join in if you wish!

Dining in London is always a fun affair during the holidays. A true culinary capital, London offers the best dining experiences—from ritzy Michelin star restaurants to quaint, old-style pubs. Food markets, such as Borough Market will have stalls that sell traditional, seasonal treats as well as Christmas food from around the world. Enjoy a mulled-wine whilst browsing the produce, and don’t be afraid to try any tastings!

A wonderful vacation waits for you in London during the holiday season. If you’d like to plan a Christmas holiday in London, let our travel experts help you.

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